Advances in Interprofessional Management of Swallowing Disorders

Welcome to Anna Miles' Inaugural Lecture, Advances in Interprofessional Management of Swallowing Disorders Across the Lifespan.

Join us in FMHS Lecture Theatre 505-007, on March 17, 2026 at 6:00pm. Some refreshments will be provided

Abstract

Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) are prevalent across the lifespan from prematurity to advanced age and can be caused by a wide range of diseases and disorders. Not being able to eat and drink has severe consequences for respiratory and nutritional health as well as psychosocial wellbeing. Food is an integral to culture and social interactions. In this inaugural lecture, Professor Anna Miles will describe the recent advances and future directions in interprofessional management of swallowing disorders across the lifespan.

She will describe the contributions of The University of Auckland Swallowing Research Laboratory in current global swallowing assessment approaches, including videofluoroscopic advances in children and adults, as well as endoscopic, manometric, and cough testing. Comprehensive assessment leads to a better understanding of pathology and, in turn, refined treatment approaches and better healthcare service delivery models. Professor Miles' work focuses on clinically feasible healthcare improvements and advocacy for better health for all. Through interprofessional collaboration, she describes her approach and further aspirations for the future of swallowing disorders management in New Zealand and beyond. 

Biography

Professor Anna Miles is a practising speech-language therapist with 25+ years of experience working in the acute and community setting. Professor Miles is a senior academic in Speech Science, School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Auckland. She is a researcher, lecturer, and clinician in the area of swallowing and voice disorders. Professor Miles has 150+ peer-reviewed publications and has contributed to advances in the assessment of swallowing disorders worldwide. She is the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association Expert Adviser in Adult Dysphagia, an active member of the Dysphagia Research Society, and has been awarded ASHA Fellow for her contributions to research, clinical teaching, and international service.